WestCon Tribune

MAY MEETING

Current

Construction

Law Issues

 

Presented By: Jonathan J. Sweet, Attorney, Author

Our May speaker, Jonathan Sweet, is a principal in the Law Offices of Jonathan J. Sweet. In 1993, Mr. Sweet wrote a book entitled Avoiding Or Minimizing Construction Litigation. He has co-authored the third and fourth editions of a major reference source on construction law titled Sweet On Construction Industry Contracts / Major AIA Documents (in 1996 and 1999). He prepares annual supplements for these reference books. He will be discussing case studies and current construction law issues relevant to cases that have involved many Westcon members.

Mr. Sweet's books enable non-attorneys in the construction industry to understand how the construction process and law interact in order to resolve disputes without going to court. The books analyze specific issues concerning contracts, subcontracts, tort claims, insurance and bonds. The books also recommend strategies for avoiding or terminating litigation if a claim arises. They include actual case studies and a complete reference of relevant AIA, EJCDC and NSPE documents.

This is a great opportunity to bring your past and present cases to the meeting and ask for input and feedback.

Mr. Sweet has taught Construction Law at the University of San Francisco School of Law in 1994 and 1997, at San Jose State in 2002, and Lincoln Law School of Arbitrations. He has conducted numerous jury trials, bench trials, mediations and arbitrations as well as served as an expert witness in construction litigation. He has represented Contractors, Owners and Design Professionals and is able to act as a professional arbitrator or mediator when retained by either party or attorneys for either party.

Mr. Sweet has been a member of the Legal Advisory Committee of the California Association of General Contractors since 1990. He received his B.A. Degree from the University of California, Berkeley in 1978, and his J.D. Degree from the University of San Francisco in 1985.